India's BMP-2 Infantry Vehicle Awaits Final Component for Complete Indigenisation
Nagpur: A single, compact component—no larger than a typical two-wheeler battery—now represents the final hurdle in achieving full indigenisation for the Soviet-era designed infantry vehicle, the Boyoveya Mashina Pekhoty-2 (BMP-2). This vehicle, popularly known as the BMP-2, was inducted into the Indian Army during the 1980s and remains a crucial asset in the nation's defence arsenal.
AVNL's Quest for a Domestic Gyrocompass Manufacturer
Chennai-based Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL), a defence public sector undertaking formed from erstwhile ordnance factories, is actively searching for a domestic manufacturer to produce the GPK-59 gyrocompass. This high-precision instrument is essential for maintaining the BMP-2's directional accuracy, especially when navigating through water obstacles.
AVNL, which also manufactures battle tanks at its flagship Heavy Vehicle Factory in Chennai, has been conducting nationwide exhibitions over the past three to four years. The goal is to identify a reliable Indian vendor capable of producing the GPK-59, alongside other critical spares for T-72 and T-90 tanks.
Push for Atma Nirbhar Bharat in Defence
While components like the GPK-59 can be imported, the Indian government's emphasis on the Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative has spurred AVNL to intensify efforts in sourcing domestic alternatives. Officials highlighted this commitment during displays at events such as the Advantage Vidarbha Khasdar Audyogik Mahotsav, where these components were showcased.
"The most challenging aspect is the gimbal within the GPK-59, which is vital for stability in aquatic environments," explained sources familiar with the project. AVNL previously collaborated with a private vendor but encountered production and technical issues, prompting the search for multiple vendors to ensure a steady supply chain.
Indigenisation Progress for T-72 and T-90 Tanks
In addition to the BMP-2, AVNL is focusing on indigenising spares for the T-72 and T-90 tanks. Currently, the T-72 tanks have achieved 96% indigenisation, while the T-90 tanks stand at 92%. To complete the process for both tank models, AVNL requires approximately seven more spares.
These items have been listed on the Srijan portal, a platform that facilitates partnerships between defence services and private vendors. This move aims to attract capable manufacturers and accelerate the indigenisation drive.
Strategic Importance and Future Steps
The effort to fully indigenise the BMP-2 and other armoured vehicles underscores India's strategic shift towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. By developing domestic capabilities for critical components like the GPK-59 gyrocompass, the nation aims to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and enhance operational readiness.
AVNL's ongoing initiatives reflect a broader commitment to strengthening India's defence infrastructure through innovation and collaboration with the private sector, paving the way for a more robust and self-sufficient military ecosystem.
